PCOS in teens: Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

PCOS in teens is a common endocrine disorder. It can’t be diagnosed until two years after a girl’s first period. Common teen PCOS symptoms include irregular periods, excess facial hair, acne, and weight gain. PCOS can be managed with a mix of lifestyle changes, medication, and support.

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Polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects over one in ten women of reproductive age. It is underdiagnosed, and many women do not realize they have it until they struggle to get pregnant. Luckily, fertility treatments can greatly improve a woman’s chance of pregnancy with PCOS.

Some girls are diagnosed as teens, perhaps as a result of severe symptoms or family experience and knowledge about the condition. Symptoms of PCOS in teens include irregular periods, excess facial hair, acne, hair loss, and weight gain.

PCOS can be managed through a mix of lifestyle changes and medication, and management is essential to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Symptoms of PCOS in teenage girl:

PCOS symptoms in teenage girls are the same as PCOS symptoms in women. Symptoms include:

• Missed or irregular periods
• Excess facial or body hair
• Acne
• Thinning hair on the scalp
• Weight gain

What are the first signs of PCOS in teenagers?

One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is irregular periods. It can take up to two years for a girl’s menstrual cycle to become regular, so it’s not possible to diagnose PCOS during this time. You will usually have to wait up to three years after your first period before you can get a PCOS diagnosis.

What causes PCOS in teenage girls?

Scientists aren’t sure what causes PCOS, though there are several theories. One theory is that it results from a hormonal imbalance in the body. One of the characteristics of PCOS is high androgens (male hormones). Another theory is that it’s connected to insulin resistance.

A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Endocrinology found girls who experienced precocious puberty (puberty signs before age eight) had a higher chance of developing PCOS. However, this may be due to the treatment for precocious puberty rather than the puberty itself.

How is PCOS in teens diagnosed?

After waiting at least two years after your first period, you can see your doctor for a diagnosis. They will take a complete medical history and ask about your periods, symptoms, and whether there is a family history of PCOS. Before diagnosing PCOS, your doctor might perform blood tests to rule out other potential causes.

It’s essential to get a diagnosis sooner rather than later. A 2023 article published in Cureus concluded that early diagnosis and treatment could improve the quality of life for adolescents with PCOS.

PCOS teenager treatment

There is currently no cure for PCOS, so treatment options focus on managing the symptoms of this condition. PCOS treatment options for teenagers include:

Exercise

Regular exercise can manage the symptoms of PCOS by improving insulin resistance, reducing inflammation, and reducing stress. Weight gain is a common symptom of PCOS that can worsen the symptoms. Regular exercise can help you to maintain a healthy weight. Join a sports club with friends, swim, and increase the number of steps you walk daily.

A healthy diet

The food you eat could be making your symptoms worse. PCOS is associated with chronic inflammation, and some foods can add to this problem. Many women with PCOS also suffer from insulin resistance, and a diet high in junk food, processed foods, and sugars could be exacerbating the impact of this. Your doctor may be able to refer you to a dietician to help you plan your diet.

A PCOS-friendly diet is high in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean protein. Aim to eat unprocessed, fresh foods for the bulk of your diet. It’s ok to have the occasional treat, but try to keep junk food to a bare minimum. Eating healthy can help you to maintain a healthy weight and keep your symptoms under control.

Aesthetic treatments

If excess facial hair is getting you down, you might want to find a way to remove excess hair safely. Tweezing, threading, and hair removal creams are good options to try. Speak to your doctor if your acne is affecting your self-esteem; they may be able to recommend treatment to alleviate your skin problems.

Medicines

Your doctor might want to try medicine to manage your symptoms. Birth control can be used to regulate hormones and reduce symptoms of PCOS, such as acne, facial hair, and irregular periods. Other medications can be used to combat insulin resistance and regulate menstrual cycles.

Medical support

As highlighted in a 2024 review published in Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics in North America, the lifelong health consequences associated with PCOS can be disturbing to a teenage girl. It’s essential to provide medical support to ensure the girl understands the risks and how to reduce them in her daily life.

Therapy

A 2024 study published in the Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders found that adolescents with PCOS were more likely to suffer from mood, depressive, and anxiety disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and talk therapy can teach girls how to manage stress, cope with their emotions, and process their diagnosis.

Some of the symptoms of PCOS can harm a girl’s confidence and self-esteem. For example, weight gain, facial hair, and acne are all difficult symptoms to handle during your teen years especially. Therapy can help to build your confidence and self-esteem.

Support

Never underestimate the importance of a sound support system. You will benefit from supportive friends and family members who understand how PCOS impacts your broader life. Look for a support group for teenagers with PCOS to put you in touch with other teens in your situation.

Is PCOS sexually transmitted?

No, PCOS is not sexually transmitted, and whether you are sexually active or not has no relevance to whether you develop PCOS. Scientists aren’t sure exactly why some women suffer from PCOS, though it seems to run in families, which suggests a genetic link.

Can I get pregnant with PCOS?

Yes, it is still possible to conceive naturally with PCOS. Though some women find PCOS impacts their ability to fall pregnant quickly, you have no way of knowing if you are one of these women without fertility testing. If you want to avoid pregnancy, you will need to use contraception. Birth control is a standard treatment option for women with PCOS, but condoms have the advantage that they also prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

If you’ve heard PCOS can cause infertility, you may worry about whether you can have children one day. PCOS can cause irregular and missed periods, meaning there are fewer opportunities for you to conceive. Luckily, with the help of fertility doctors, most women with PCOS can fall pregnant.

Summary

PCOS in teens may be diagnosed two years after the first menstrual period. Symptoms of PCOS in teens include irregular periods, facial hair, hair loss, acne, and weight gain. The symptoms of PCOS that impact appearance can feel particularly brutal during the teen years when girls are keen to be accepted by their peers.  

PCOS in teens can be managed through diet, exercise, weight management, medication, stress management, and support. Teens with PCOS have an increased risk of suffering from several mood disorders, so emotional support is essential.

While PCOS is associated with fertility struggles, this doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant with PCOS. If you don’t want to get pregnant, make sure you use contraception. Condoms prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pregnancy, so use these alongside your hormonal birth control.

While a PCOS diagnosis can feel scary, try not to worry too much. You can reduce the symptoms by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following the treatment plan created by your doctor. Do not be afraid to reach out to your doctor for help if you’re struggling with PCOS symptoms. Learning about your condition can empower you to get on top of your symptoms.